CHARLOTTE, N.C. — The second week of March 2022 is designated for severe weather preparedness.
In this edition, Mecklenburg County is honing in on flood safety, and literally raising the roof to protect people from floodwaters along the Catawba River at Riverside Drive.
A home now sits two feet above the flood stage to protect it during a 100-year flood event.
Flooding is the top natural disaster in Mecklenburg County. From flash flooding to rising river levels after a heavy rain event, people should be prepared for potential flooding.
Just three years ago in June of 2019, homes suffered significant damage after a heavy rain event, which caused the Catawba River to flood nearby homes.
Mecklenburg County Senior Communications Specialist John Wendel encourages residents to take advantage of numerous resources to protect themselves and their property from weather events.
For one, CharMeck is an alert notification system intended to alert you ahead of dangerous weather situations. The system is designed to alert you based on your location.
Secondly, report clogged storm drains by calling 311. Wendel says large blockage can cause flash flooding at a moment's notice after a brief downpour.
Next, the retroFIT program will either buy out your home in a flood plain or provide up to 90% of assistance to elevate it above flood stage. Wendel says without the program, damage from recent flood events would have cost millions of dollars.
"If you look at the acceptance rate of our buyout program, it's like 80 to 90% take that buyout," Wendel said. "It's a voluntary program, so they don't have to. But, they are relieved they are getting out of a dangerous situation and they are moving to a safer place."
Since the program started in 1998, 450 homes have been purchased and officials are aiming to assist with an additional 1,200 homes and businesses.
Residents in the Charlotte area qualify for flood premium discounts. Wendel said the discount is a great incentive for anyone who may be on the fence about the extra layer of protection.
There's a 30-day waiting period for flood insurance.
Contact KJ Jacobs at kjacobs3@wcnc.com and follow him on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.